Think of the Seasons as a metaphor for the phases of any life transition journey. If we see change as a naturally occurring event - much like the change of seasons - then we can embrace change as a gift and an invitation to improve and enhance our lives. Butterflies also remind us to never be afraid of spreading our wings (having dreams) and flying as high as we can (achieving those dreams and not limiting ourselves.) They aren’t just pretty creatures, they’re also a great reminder of what matters most in life and what true beauty means.

Currently we are between Winter Solstice (Catching Sparks of Hope in the Darkness) and Late Winter (Exploring and Experimenting to Firm Up Your Vision for the Future).

During your Winter Solstice time and beyond, focus your attention on:

• Turning things upside down to look at your life from new perspectives • Drawing a line in the sand and saying "enough is enough" • Telling a new story about your past to find new doors to the future

At the same time, do what you can to avoid these detours: • Avoiding your quiet time • Being in a toxic environment • Being wedded to one solution

While you are in Late Winter moving towards Spring, focus your attention on:

• Following your insights wherever they take you • Clearing out the old in your space, your to-do list, your relationships, and your mind • Experimenting and exploring to firm up your vision for the future

At the same time, do what you can to avoid these detours: • Ignoring your insights • Doing what you've always done because it's more comfortable than stretching • Charging ahead without a sense of where you are going

Tanya Vallianos, MA, LPC, ATR, NCC, EMDR III, EAP II is a psychotherapist in private practice in Fort Collins, CO. She can be reached at www.innersunhealingarts.com or 970-420-9504